Crypto in Banking

Digital assets, tokenization, and the evolution of crypto in banking

American Banker delivers trusted, journalist-driven analysis on how banks are navigating the world of crypto. From regulatory updates to use cases for blockchain infrastructure, this portal explores how digital assets are reshaping payments, custody, compliance, and more. Whether you're building strategy or managing risk, our crypto coverage helps financial leaders stay ahead of disruption.

American Banker highlights the areas where crypto is intersecting with core banking functions like compliance, settlement, and liquidity management. Our reporting avoids the hype and focuses on what matters to banks: oversight, infrastructure, and risk. Whether you're shaping strategy or monitoring market shifts, this is where the industry's crypto story takes shape.

Fintech

Welcome to open mic night at a Citi fintech unit

Borrowing from the startup world and some popular TV shows, Citigroup is encouraging employees to pitch innovative ideas to a panel of senior execs who could give them the green light to start work.

By Penny Crosman
Executive Editor, Technology at Arizent

November 22
Bitcoin

JPMorgan said to weigh offering CME bitcoin futures to clients

Bitcoin’s eightfold surge in value this year is forcing Wall Street banks to balance clients’ interest in speculating on the cryptocurrency with executives’ skepticism about its future.

November 21
Bitcoin

Ripple adds former NYDFS head to board of directors

The digital-currency startup, which markets software to banks, appears keen to signal that it wants to play by the rules.

By Brian Patrick Eha

November 21
Blockchain

Can blockchain fix the economies of virtual worlds?

Cryptocurrency could be a strong fit for online games, which often develop their own realistic economies despite being cut off from mainstream currencies.

By John Adams
Executive Editor, Payments

November 21
Cyber security

Hackers steal $31M of the cryptocurrency tether

The incident will fuel the debate on Wall Street over whether digital coins are secure enough to enter the mainstream of finance.

November 21
Bitcoin

Coinbase positions itself as a digital currency custodian

The startup is betting that a venture offering safe storage of digital assets will entice billions from banks and other institutional investors.

By Brian Patrick Eha

November 17
Invest Insights

Is bitcoin ‘the next kale’?

Michael Lewis calls it a "pump-and-dump" scheme. Liz Ann Sonders says it's "the next kale." Should clients invest in cryptocurrencies?

By Suleman Din
Technology Editor

November 17

Frequently Asked Questions:

How is American Banker’s crypto coverage different from crypto-native sites?

We don’t cover meme coins or speculative investing. Our editorial team reports from a banking-first lens — focusing on regulation, enterprise use cases, compliance, and tech partnerships involving banks, fintechs, and regulators.

What are the main ways banks are engaging with crypto today?

Digital payments innovation
Cross-border payments using blockchain rails
Tokenization of real-world assets (RWA) like treasuries and mortgages
Compliance tech for crypto transactions and AML screening
Partnerships with fintechs and exchanges

Is crypto still relevant after recent market volatility?

Yes — especially for regulated institutions. Crypto markets may be volatile, but underlying blockchain infrastructure continues to attract investment and regulatory scrutiny. Banks are investing in long-term use cases, not short-term speculation. The focus is on efficiency, transparency, and fitting new technology into existing financial systems.

Who contributes to American Banker’s crypto coverage?

Our reporters and editors have deep experience in financial regulation, payments, and fintech. We regularly interview bank executives, technologists, regulators, and policy analysts — bringing you real-world insights that matter to institutions.

Can American Banker crypto insights be shared in boardrooms and risk committees?

Yes. Our reporting is regularly cited by bank leaders, shared in investment decks, and used to support internal discussions on innovation, risk appetite, and digital transformation. For redistribution, see our licensing terms.

How do I stay up-to-date on the latest crypto news?

We update our crypto coverage regularly — in response to breaking regulatory moves, major institutional adoption, and industry shifts. Check back daily or subscribe to our newsletters to stay current. Coverage includes interviews with banking leaders, policy updates from Washington, and analysis of the latest technology pilots. As crypto continues to evolve, our reporting helps financial professionals track what matters most.

What are the key crypto-related themes to watch right now?

Banks are keeping a close eye on the growth of stablecoins, tokenized deposits, and how blockchain is being used to streamline payments and settlement. At the same time, regulatory decisions around custody, licensing, and compliance are shaping what’s possible in the months ahead.